Photographer Salary in Madison, Wisconsin
The median photographer salary in Madison, WI is $40,200 per year, which is 0.0% above the national median and 8.7% above the Wisconsin state average.
Photographer Pay in Madison: What to Expect (2026)
Madison offers a median photographer salary of $40,200, which is $3,216 above the Wisconsin state average of $36,984. Compared to the national median of $40,200, Madison pays above average for this role.
Madison's cost of living is 100% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for photographers in Madison spans from $24,000 at the 10th percentile to $82,000 at the 90th percentile — a $58,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $26,000, while senior photographers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $75,000. With a population of 269,840, Madison is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Photographer Salary in Madison by Experience
In Madison, an entry-level photographer earns around $26,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $75,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 100% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Madison, WI
| Percentile | Madison |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $24,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $30,000 |
| Median (50th) | $40,200 |
| 75th Percentile | $58,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $82,000 |
Photographer Salary in Other Wisconsin Cities
How to Become a Photographer in Madison
Education
Most photographer positions require a high school diploma. Madison and the surrounding Wisconsin area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, photographer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Madison may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Photographer Jobs in Madison
Browse open photographer positions in Madison, WI: